There’s no doubt that private aviation is having a moment in the sun when it comes to British business travel.
The motorways are growing more congested, airport queues are getting worse, and who knows when train drivers will decide to go on strike next. Flying private is the only way to guarantee that the wheels of business keep on turning, and nobody wants to be late for an all-important meeting because of transport delays.
But Britain is a small country, after all. There’s no point chartering a Boeing 737 when a Cessna Citation will do the job. Also, with smaller jets, you’ll get access to a wider range of airports, getting you much closer to the action a lot sooner than if you flew into a busy transport hub.
So, if you’re thinking about chartering a private aircraft for your next short-haul business trip, take a look below at some of the best light aircraft on the market today.
Cessna Citation CJ3
There’s something incredibly reassuring about the CJ3, one of the best-selling editions of the Cessna Citation. Whether you’re zipping between high-powered meetings or escaping to a client retreat, the CJ3 delivers a unique blend of speed and comfort, making it an industry favourite for short-haul trips.
The CJ3 is expertly designed for a Plane Charter under 2,000 nautical miles, offering an ideal combination of range and fuel efficiency. Powered by Williams International FJ44-3A engines, it delivers impressive thrust, enabling rapid climbs to a cruising altitude of 45,000 feet in just 27 minutes — even from demanding airports like London City.
Once you step inside, you’ll find that it’s far more than the “airport taxi” nickname gives it credit for. The club-four seating layout, combined with forward-facing seats, offers passengers a spacious and quiet environment for either work or play.
Pilatus PC-12NGX
Now for something a little different. For shorter journeys that demand luxury and style, the Pilatus PC-12 NGX is a game-changer for the UK business aviation market. Introduced in 2020, this latest iteration of the iconic and recently award-winning PC-12 series continues to push boundaries, offering seating for up to nine passengers and a cabin that rivals light jets in comfort while remaining highly efficient.
At the heart of the PC-12 NGX is the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6E-67XP engine, renowned for its fuel efficiency and reliability. This engine is coupled with the innovative Pilatus Advanced Cockpit Environment (ACE). This advanced cockpit reduces pilot workload, ensuring smoother flights — ideal for single-pilot operations or short-notice charters.
One of its standout features is its ability to operate from short or unpaved runways, making it perfect for accessing remote airports such as La Môle (St. Tropez) or Saanen (Gstaad). For UK travellers, this means less time spent in transit and more direct access to regional airports, whether it’s a business trip to Guernsey or a weekend escape to Inverness.
Bombardier Challenger 605
In the UK market, finding a private jet that seamlessly blends reliability and capacity within a business budget can be a challenge. Enter the Bombardier Challenger 605 — a standout choice for executives and teams needing versatile travel solutions. With room for up to 12 passengers, it’s ideal for medium-sized teams flying between key European hubs or tackling transatlantic routes.
The Challenger 605’s spacious cabin, complete with stand-up headroom and fully reclining seats, offers a premium environment designed to keep passengers refreshed and ready to perform. For those perfecting presentations or staying connected on the go, onboard amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi and integrated media systems provide the tools to stay productive wherever you are.
With a 4,000-nautical-mile range, this jet easily handles flights from London to New York or Dubai, making it a trusted workhorse for businesses with global reach. Priced at approximately £5,000 per flight hour, the Challenger 605 delivers everything your executive team needs to get the job done, all while flying 40,000 feet.
Embraer Phenom 300E
The Phenom 300 — holder of titles as prestigious as the best-selling light jet for 12 years running and the fastest single-pilot jet in production. It’s designed for both business and leisure travellers, accommodating up to 10 passengers in a thoughtfully crafted cabin that boasts luxurious seating, ample legroom, and a refreshingly quiet environment.
With a range of 2,010 nautical miles, the Phenom 300 effortlessly connects London to destinations across Europe, such as Rome, Athens, or even Reykjavik, without refuelling. Its ability to access shorter runways, including regional airports like London City, ensures unparalleled flexibility for reaching less accessible locations.
At cruising speeds of up to 521mph, the Phenom 300 is one of the fastest jets in its class, saving valuable time on every journey. Onboard, passengers benefit from modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, intuitive cabin controls, and large windows that let in all that natural light.
Gulfstream G45
For executives who demand unparalleled quality, the Gulfstream G450 sets the gold standard in private aviation. Gulfstream, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, remains a leader in delivering seamless travel experiences for business leaders worldwide.
Designed to seat up to 14 passengers, the G450’s cabin features lie-flat seats, Michelin-standard dining options, and advanced soundproofing that ensures privacy and productivity throughout the journey. For teams needing to focus during long-haul flights, this aircraft transforms travel into a seamless extension of the office.
The G450’s nearly 8,000km range makes it ideal for transatlantic routes, such as London to New York, without the need for stopovers. Whether forging new partnerships or solidifying relationships, this aircraft enables leaders to connect effortlessly, arriving refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Its ability to access smaller airports adds a layer of versatility, bypassing crowded hubs and delivering passengers closer to their destinations. While you might not necessarily need a Gulfstream G45 for the shortest flights, you won’t be sorry that you chose to travel in the pinnacle of luxury wherever you fly.
Fly Your Way, No Matter the Distance
In the UK’s competitive business landscape, private aviation is the only option if you want to get somewhere fast and in style. Whether it’s the versatility of the Pilatus PC-12NGX or the refined luxury of the Gulfstream G450, these aircraft enable businesses to connect across the country, avoiding the delays and limitations of commercial travel.